Research topics

Role in MitoCross

First goal

Functional characterisation of pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins, a novel class of RNA binding proteins universally found in eukaryotes. At the level of entire organisms, the study of PPR proteins functions has extremely wide implications, going from human health to crop yield. We investigate the function of different subgroups of PPR proteins, in particular involved in RNase P activity as well as in the crosstalk between mitochondria and the nucleus.

Second goal

Determination of interaction networks of PPR proteins with RNA and proteins: We will explore the global function of PPR proteins by determining the interactome map of a high number of PPR proteins with possible RNA targets. Similarly, the integration of PPR protein functions with other cellular pathways will be determined through the investigation of the protein / protein interactome networks of PPR proteins.

Third goal

Mechanistic characterisation of PPR proteins: The overall mode of action of PPR proteins will be investigated through the determination of a collection of 3D structures of representative PPR proteins, both as single proteins and in complex with their specific RNA targets. Structural data will be obtained both in solution and by crystallographic methods.